Columbia Restaurant

 

Columbia Restaurant in Tampa opened in 1905.  It is the oldest and biggest Spanish restaurant in the United States.  It was originally a cafe for the cigar makers in the Ybor City neighborhood of Tampa. 

It wouldn't be a trip to Tampa without visiting Columbia for a meal. 

The front of the restaurant has gorgeous tile panels.

I booked too late for a table in the room with flamenco dancers, but after the meal we stood along the back wall and watched for a bit.

Cesar Gonzmart was a classically trained violinist.  He married the daughter of Columbia's founder and was persuaded to give up his touring musical career and work at Columbia.  He eventually became general manager, then chairman, and expanded the restaurant group considerably.  While GM, Gonzmart strolled the restaurant and entertained guests with his violin.